11 Best Used BMW Models

Which of These Used BMWs Is Right for You?

For auto enthusiasts on a budget, some great cars that were out of reach when new have become affordable with the passage of time. Many used luxury and performance vehicles often sell for less than new subcompact cars, which they will easily outperform, despite their age. That is true even for models from such highly regarded automakers as BMW.

Long promoted as “The Ultimate Driving Machines,” BMWs have for many years set the standard for performance luxury vehicles. While it could be argued that some BMW models have strayed from that “Ultimate” promise in recent years, there is no debating that BMWs – even used BMWs – remain highly desirable vehicles.

Is one of these used BMWs right for you? Read the following slides to find out.

2007 BMW X3

From the very beginning, the BMW X3 SUV placed an emphasis on sportiness, as well as utility. Back in 2007, this all-wheel-drive “sport activity vehicle” delivered outstanding overall performance. It still does.

Well-maintained examples should handle nicely, be powerful, and have a comfortable interior. Some critics thought the ride harsh, and they complained about the original $38,000 price tag. That sum, however, has been drastically reduced by the passage of time.

2011 BMW 3 Series

Its combination of handling agility (described as fantastic in its U.S. News review), refined ride, and powerful, responsive engines can go a long way toward helping a driver overlook the fact that a BMW 3 Series from this period may not be the most luxurious small car. Instead, it ranks high among cars that are great fun to drive. Add strong safety ratings to complete the picture.

The 2011 BMW 3 Series was available as a sedan, coupe, wagon, or hardtop convertible. Buyers seeking the ultimate in performance should look for the M3 variant.

2013 BMW 1 Series

The 1 Series may have disappeared from the BMW lineup after the 2013 model year, but that in no way diminishes its current appeal as a used car. When it first arrived in 2008, many critics suggested that the 1 Series was the philosophical heir to the original 1600 and 2002 BMWs, the cars that were arguably the very first sports sedans. Certainly, the 1 Series’ nimble handling, small size, and ample power made driving a joy. It still does.

2016 BMW 2 Series

BMW introduced the high-performance M2 version of the 2 Series in 2016. Even the base 228i came with a potent 240-horsepower turbocharged 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. The six-cylinder upgrade added 80 horsepower for even better performance. Buyers can expect exceptional handling – along with a cramped back seat – in this model.

2014 BMW 3 Series

With 2018 3 Series BMWs now available, 2014 models can be considered four-year-old cars. As a result, the price of entry has dropped considerably for these 2014 BMW 3 Series, which are still young enough to look and feel almost new. Expect to find powerful engines, with ratings ranging from 180 to 300 horsepower in the mainstream versions, a user-friendly infotainment system, and nimble handling.

2014 BMW 4 Series

2014 marked the first year for the BMW 4 Series. These coupes delivered sharp handling and unexpectedly good fuel economy. Rear-wheel drive was standard, with xDrive all-wheel drive an option. The transmission will be either a six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic. Buyers will find cabin space limited. However, a well-maintained example should deliver above-average reliability.

2010 BMW 7 Series

Brisk acceleration and top-notch handling – what more could a driving enthusiast want in a large luxury sedan? While the passenger cabin may not be as sumptuous as the interiors of some rivals, it is comfortable and businesslike. The 2010 model represented the second year of production following a complete redesign. Among the improvements that came with this revamping was a much more user-friendly iDrive infotainment system.

2017 BMW 5 Series

A 2017 5 Series sedan is almost new, and a desirable example will be priced accordingly. This was the first year of the 5 Series’ complete redesign

Critics noted that some competitors were more engaging to drive. They did, however, praise the powerful and fuel-efficient engines, comfortable ride, and large – if oddly shaped – trunk. These strengths, along with the car’s advanced technology, helped to propel this latest 5 Series BMW to a highly placed finish when U.S. News ranked luxury midsize sedans.

2009 BMW 7 Series

The BMW 7 Series has long been one of the few luxury sedans that placed an emphasis on performance and driving enjoyment. Surprisingly sporty, its handling will quickly make a driver forget this sedan’s substantial size. The Driving Dynamics Control System allows the car to switch quickly from its luxurious Interstate cruiser mode to its twisty back-road mode. The most appealing aspect of this BMW 7 Series, however, might be its current price, which is down significantly from the original $80,000-plus that it cost the first owner.

2009 BMW X3

U.S. News concluded in 2009 that this BMW X3 was one of the sportiest compact SUVs on the market. Its handling was first rate, it featured a large cargo area for its category, and it even offered a manual transmission. Granted, some might consider the ride to be a little too firm, but that was the price to be paid for the exceptional handling.

2017 BMW 4 Series

Reviews have concluded that this BMW could well be the ideal small luxury car. It is powerful, refined, and comes stuffed with the latest technology. It is a driver’s car, with exceptional handling, yet its ride on the open road is surprisingly comfortable. Driving enthusiasts who also value practicality will embrace its reliability and, in hatchback Gran Coupes, there is 45.9 cubic feet available for cargo.